But Cottey, 47, who won County Championship titles with both Glamorgan and Sussex, says England's recent record against Australia is as good as it has ever been in the modern era.

"Our record against Australia post-war is pretty poor. Over the last 10 years we've blitzed them three or four times and English Test cricket is in a good way," added Cottey, who now works as a business relationship manager for Sussex.

"Obviously this series has kicked everyone back but it is only one series at the moment.

"Everyone goes through cycles and there's still some quality players. We've got good systems in place."